Running the updater should be a standard procedure for players before playing the game. Downloading and installing patches manually should only be done for troubleshooting and/or to bypass high traffic times.

To properly install the game you need to:

1. Downloading the most recent game client installer.

2. Run the installer (preferably as administrator).

3. Read terms and conditions. Close the installer if you don't accept.

4. Select the folder you wish World of Tanks to be installed in.

5. Wait for the installation to complete and then close the installer.

6. Run the updater and wait for any patches to be downloaded and applied.

The only purchasable item within the game client is Gold. With Gold, you can purchase many more in-game things and sometimes you can convert the Gold into experience points for use on more tanks and attachments and the like.